Just bought a 99 explorer and it makes a whine, squeel noise from the power steering pump.

At first I thought it was a wheel bearing (sounds just like it high pitch) but it was still there when stopped.

I read threads about changing fluid and adding lucas but I was wondering if THIS noise is the same as others.

We are going on a 1200 mile one way trip (yes 2400 total) and I would not like for the pump to seize on the road.

Pumps are not readily available in my big hick town so I figured it was rare for them to go out.

Thanks for all the help,

Ed

ander12@alltel.net

 

A high pitched squeel sounds more like a bearing in the pulley to me. A noisy pump sounds more like a growl or groan.